Mechanisms of Epstein-Barr virus-associated autoimmunity: a comparative overview - Takeaways - MDSpire

Comparative Analysis of Autoimmune Mechanisms Linked to Epstein-Barr Virus

By
Fathima Shabnam
Gulfaraz Khan
July 21, 2026

Frontiers In Immunology

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1

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is linked to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
2

Shared mechanisms of EBV-related autoimmunity include immune dysfunction triggered by EBV latent proteins and molecular mimicry.
3

In multiple sclerosis, EBV is associated with CD8+ T-cell responses and molecular mimicry with neural antigens.
4

In systemic lupus erythematosus, EBV contributes to autoimmunity through mimicry with autoantigens and recurrent viral reactivation.
5

Host genetic variations, particularly in HLA alleles, influence susceptibility to EBV-associated autoimmune diseases.

Original Source(s)

Frontiers In Immunology

Mechanisms of Epstein-Barr virus-associated autoimmunity: a comparative overview

by Fathima Shabnam, Gulfaraz Khan
July 21, 2026

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